Custom in-car computer set-up
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Joined: May 2003
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From: Virginia Beach, VA
Custom in-car computer set-up
Ok guys, so here is my plan for the next 2 weeks. My buddy is GIVING me his Toshiba laptop. He never uses it and I told him I wanted it for my car. This is what im going to do:
First, hardwire the 12v connector for the laptop therefore constant power. The laptop will be stored behind the drivers seat, or in the trunk, I havn't decided yet. Buy a 7-8" TFT/VGA display off Ebay for ~$200. Make a bracket to mount it to the right of the shifter and aim it towards the driver. Easy hook up for video, just plug VGA<VGA. For mouse/keyboard, I'm thinking a mini USB keyboard with built-in touchpad mouse($45) that would sit on the passenger seat. Also, an external DVD drive($50) will be put in the glove box to play DVD's and transfer files, etc. For audio, a simple 3.5mm headphone jack<RCA input cord($5) plugged into the back of my deck I have right now. That takes care of audio/video/mouse/keyboard. Also buying a USB GPS receiver($50) mounted on the dash. Used with Microsoft Streets and Maps program or somehting of the sort, I have GPS.
The only thing I havn't figured out yet is a way to turn the power on and off of the laptop from sitting in the driver's seat. Until then, updates will be coming.
First, hardwire the 12v connector for the laptop therefore constant power. The laptop will be stored behind the drivers seat, or in the trunk, I havn't decided yet. Buy a 7-8" TFT/VGA display off Ebay for ~$200. Make a bracket to mount it to the right of the shifter and aim it towards the driver. Easy hook up for video, just plug VGA<VGA. For mouse/keyboard, I'm thinking a mini USB keyboard with built-in touchpad mouse($45) that would sit on the passenger seat. Also, an external DVD drive($50) will be put in the glove box to play DVD's and transfer files, etc. For audio, a simple 3.5mm headphone jack<RCA input cord($5) plugged into the back of my deck I have right now. That takes care of audio/video/mouse/keyboard. Also buying a USB GPS receiver($50) mounted on the dash. Used with Microsoft Streets and Maps program or somehting of the sort, I have GPS.
The only thing I havn't figured out yet is a way to turn the power on and off of the laptop from sitting in the driver's seat. Until then, updates will be coming.
Your going to change your plans a little bit after looking around here
http://www.mp3car.com/
The best way to make a shut off for the laptop that is universal is to get inside the shitch and wire in a external conector that can be pluged in for the on/off switch
http://www.mp3car.com/
The best way to make a shut off for the laptop that is universal is to get inside the shitch and wire in a external conector that can be pluged in for the on/off switch
This is frodoplayer with a mazda overlay, pretty cool huh?
https://www.rx7club.com/showthread.p...1&page=1&pp=15
https://www.rx7club.com/showthread.p...1&page=1&pp=15
Last edited by rotarypower101; Jun 18, 2005 at 05:48 PM.
